Wotan was my soul dog and followed me everywhere. He loved playing and was born for the sport of agility and competed until the age of twelve. He enjoyed retirement, whether it was sleeping in bed or getting the best spot on the couch or joining us for a hike.

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Goodbye my Wotan

Who could have imagined the amazing journey he took me on and the lessons he taught me...he will forever be in my heart...

Wotan was my heart and soul dog. He was a truly wonderful gift from his breeder after a tragic accident killed his sister. He was my constant companion and kept me company as a pup, while on bedrest during a difficult pregnancy and as my personal therapy dog during chemotherapy. So tolerant of a then novice handler, Wotan was my "A" dog, and guinea pig and exposed to almost every dog activity out there. I showed this boy myself and put a 4-point major on him but we retired him at 13 points, just short of finishing his championship, as we tried unsuccessfully to get that last elusive major. He would not work for even the best handlers as he was such a momma's boy.

Wotan had incredible drive and athleticism. Extremely birdy, he finished his Junior Hunter title easily and loved to hunt at the preserve. He even earned his first leg with a very pregnant handler traipsing behind.

We then discovered agility and immediately became hooked. Wotan was born for this sport but it took years to bridle his extreme enthusiasm and drive, and gain control and consistency. He humbled his handler at many agility trials and if anything, always provided the entertainment. Amazingly at the age of 12, he completed his AX and AXJ titles with first places at all breed trials.

Known as the Houdini dog, Wotan broke out of every crate made and would rather just guard the house from his perch on the couch.

Wotan retired from agility (at age 12), and up until the very end, he still loved to hike, run around the yard and cuddle next to me in bed.

2 comments:

I am crying as I read this. I never met Wotan but just from hearing you speak about him you can tell how much of a bond and love there was between the two of you. I am SO very sorry for your loss. My heart is breaking for you and our thoughts are with you and yours during this very difficult time. I am so very sorry. I wish there was more I could say or do....